Candidates are expected to have a minimum of 48 UCAS points this could be through the successful completion of a relevant qualification at Level 3, such as a BTEC, Diploma or T-Level.
Nonstandard entry will be considered on an individual basis and requires a personal statement, portfolio and reference.
Candidates are normally expected to have achieved at least a grade 4 (or equivalent) in GCSE English and Maths (Maths is not essential).
Start date:
Sep 2026
Course Overview
The CertHE Working with Children and Families, awarded by the University of Cumbria and taught at the University Centre Accrington and Rossendale (part of the East Lancashire Learning Group), is designed for those who wish to work with children, young people, and families.
The course explores a broad range of issues affecting children and families in contemporary society. Each module provides a strong grounding in key themes relevant to professionals working across multi-agency contexts with children and their carers. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your academic and professional skills while building upon the knowledge and understanding gained at Level 3 or through prior experience. Work placement is an essential part of the programme, enabling you to apply theory to practice and gain valuable experience in real-world settings.
Course Fees – The cost of this part‑time course is £4763.
Awarding Body – This programme is awarded by the University of Cumbria.
You can find more information about the University of Cumbria here – https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/
Course Overview
Level 4 • Perspectives in Human Development • Professional Skills with Children, Young People, Families and Communities • Social and Political Influences on Policy and Practice • Play and Creative Development in Diverse Contexts • Cultural and Historical Influences on Children, Young People and Families • An Introduction to Practitioner Research
Additional Information
Taught in collaboration with the University of Cumbria The University of Cumbria is fully committed to delivering exceptional and professional higher-level learning to meet the demands of an ever-evolving workforce and emerging markets. They do this by expanding opportunities, deepening connections to industries while equipping all students with the ability to thrive wherever in the world they choose to live. With a proud history of offering arts, business, law, policing, science, conservation, sport, health, social care, rehab and teacher training programmes to people nationwide, the institution ranked 1st in the UK for the quality of its education according to the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2020. It enriches people by providing a safe and supportive environment, as well as innovative academic opportunities, such as providing degree apprenticeships, CPD and foundation courses through further education partners, making the impossible possible for more students. Click here for more information.
How is the course delivered?
This is a part time course, delivered face to face.
Teaching is interactive and engaging, combining lectures, seminars, workshops, and case study analysis with independent study. Group discussions and collaborative projects encourage you to share experiences and develop professional skills, while small class sizes ensure you receive personalised support from tutors.
Work-related learning is a core element of delivery, with opportunities to connect your academic studies to practice through voluntary placements or relevant employment. This applied approach ensures your learning is meaningful, relevant, and grounded in the realities of working with children and families.
How my learning will be assessed?
This course includes a wide variety of assessment methods aimed at building your subject knowledge, academic and professional skills. All assessment methods have been designed to support you in developing a wide range of skills.
Assessments methods include essays; multiple choice questionnaires; individual and group presentations; presentation of a portfolio of work-based learning evidence and reflection; creation of an academic poster and a blog; and you will also take part in a creative project.
The course includes mandatory work experience of 30 hrs at level 4.
Course Facilities
As a CertHE Working with Children and Families student, you will study within our dedicated University Centre, offering modern classrooms, IT suites, and collaborative study areas. The Learning Resource Centre provides access to academic texts, journals, and digital databases, with support from experienced staff to develop your research and study skills.
You will also benefit from quiet study zones, spaces for group projects, and welcoming social areas. Tailored academic support and wellbeing services ensure you have the resources and guidance needed to succeed in higher education and in your chosen career path.
Potential Careers
This foundation degree opens a wide range of rewarding career opportunities working with children, young people, and families. Graduates often progress into roles such as family support worker, learning mentor, early years practitioner, youth worker, or community development officer within education, health, and social care settings.
The knowledge and practical experience gained through your placement will prepare you to make a real difference in the lives of others and to contribute positively to multi-agency and community-based work. You’ll also have the option to continue your professional development through further study or training relevant to your chosen career path.
